Greenspace Public Art Commission, Austin Peay State University

Austin Peay State University's Department of Art + Design seeks to commission an original work of art for a new green-space on campus, located directly adjacent to the new Art + Design Building. The goal of the artwork is to enhance public space and to promote the department's vision to provide a creative environment that enables students to ask questions, think critically, and participate in a global society. Goals for the artwork include site responsiveness, engagement with the student community, durability, and aesthetic interest.

Budget: $120,000 (includes design fees, fabrication, installation, material costs, and all other related fees, but does not include ongoing maintenance or repair). The work will be sited adjacent to the university's new Art + Design Building. This RFQ is open to all artists regardless of race, color, creed, gender, gender variance, sexual orientation, national origin, age, religion, marital status, political opinion or affiliation, or mental or physical disability. Artists working in any media are eligible to apply, and previous experience in public art is not required. People of color, LGBTQIA individuals, and differently-abled persons are highly encouraged to apply.

Application requirements include: a cover letter describing your interest in the project, your general approach to public artwork, a brief description of your work's overall themes, and any relevant project experience; a professional resume/bio with contact information and a list of public/commissioned artworks; a portfolio of up to 10 images demonstrating your ability to complete a project on this scale; an annotated image list with title, date, media, size, client, location, and project budget; and a timeline for completion. Up to three finalists will be short-listed and issued a request for proposals, with a stipend of $1,500 per finalist. Finalists will provide concept drawings and a scaled model, thematic description/interpretation, a maintenance plan, and a detailed budget and timeline. The committee will select finalists based on strength of past work and demonstrated ability to design and install works of similar scale/scope, with final selection based on thematic and formal strength of the proposal. The final selection is subject to approval by the University President and administration.